Chapter 7 Flashcards
Physical Changes in Early Childhood
Between ages 2 and 6, children grow about 3 inches per year and gain 4-5 pounds annually. While toddlers have large heads and short limbs, by age 6, body proportions resemble those of an adult.
Brain growth
is significant, reaching 95% of its adult weight by age 6,
supporting improved cognitive and motor functions.
The left hemisphere
associated with language, logical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. Tends to develop earlier than the right hemisphere and undergoes rapid growth.
The right hemisphere
continues to grow throughout early childhood and is involved in tasks that require spatial skills such
as recognizing shapes and patterns it is associated with creativity.
corpus callosum strengthens
The two hemispheres are connected by a structure called the corpus callosum, which allows communication between them.
Preschoolers’ appetites
decrease as growth slows.
To establish lifelong healthy eating
habits:
Avoid power struggles over food.
Serve balanced meals with varied nutrients.
Limit sugary snacks and excessive milk consumption, which can interfere with iron
absorption.
Encourage children to participate in meal preparation.
The USDA recommends specific meal patterns, including servings of milk, fruits, vegetables,
grains, and protein at each meal.
Gross motor milestones
(ages 3-5) include climbing, hopping, skipping, and
standing on one foot.
Fine motor milestones
involve improved dexterity, such as using scissors,
drawing, and using utensils.
Preschoolers require how much sleep
10-11 hours of sleep per night. Sleep is vital for memory
consolidation and emotional regulation.
Common sleep disorders include:
Sleepwalking: Engaging in activities while asleep.
Sleep terrors: Sudden awakening with intense fear, different from nightmares.
Nightmare disorder: Frequent distressing dreams affecting sleep quality.
Most children are ready for toilet training
between 29-31 months, but readiness varies. Signs include recognizing the need to use the toilet and staying dry for
longer periods.
Enuresis (en-yuh-REE-sis)
Bedwetting beyond age 5.
Encopresis (en-ko-PREE-sis)
Involuntary passage of feces in inappropriate
places.
Childhood obesity
Linked to diet, physical inactivity, and screen time.
Food allergies
Affect around 4% of children; severe reactions may lead to
anaphylaxis (an-uh-fuh-LAK-sis)
Oral health
Regular brushing, fluoride treatments, and dental visits prevent cavities.
Poison prevention
Secure storage of medications and household chemicals.
